4 Digestive Causes of Abdominal Pain:
What Houston Residents Need to Know
Abdominal pain can hit anyone, anytime. Whether you’re grabbing tacos in Montrose or having dinner in The Heights, stomach pain can ruin your plans. At Gastrodoxs.com , we believe that knowing what causes pain helps you feel better, faster.
In this guide, Dr. Bharat Pothuri shares the top 4 digestive causes of abdominal pain. We’ll explain them in plain language, list warning signs, and offer ways to get relief. Let’s dive in!
Quote from Dr. Bharat Pothuri
"Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit my Houston clinic," says Dr. Pothuri. "Finding the root cause—like GERD or gallstones—helps us treat it faster."
Section 1: Understanding Digestive Abdominal Pain
Where It Hurts Matters
Upper abdomen (under ribs): stomach, gallbladder, pancreas
Lower abdomen: intestines or colon
General pain: could be gas, indigestion, or a stomach virus
How It Feels
Sharp or stabbing
Dull or achy
Cramping
Burning
When to Call a Doctor Right Away
Severe, constant pain
Fever over 101 degree F
Blood in vomit or stool
Sudden weight loss
Section 2: Cause #1 – Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
What Is IBS?
IBS is a long-term condition affecting the large intestine. It causes cramping, gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Symptoms
Crampy pain in the lower belly
Bloating after eating
Diarrhea or constipation (or both)
Mucus in stool
Why It Happens
Food sensitivities
Stress or anxiety
Gut-brain connection problems
Dr. Pothuri’s Tip: "Try a food diary. Many of my Houston patients learn that dairy or greasy foods trigger symptoms."
Simple Ways to Feel Better
Eat small, frequent meals
Limit gassy foods like beans and cabbage
Try fiber supplements (like psyllium)
Relax with deep breathing or yoga
Section 3: Cause #2 – Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
What Is GERD?
GERD happens when stomach acid flows into the esophagus. It causes heartburn and other symptoms.
Symptoms
Burning feeling behind the chest
Sour taste or food coming up
Sore throat or hoarseness
Worse when lying down
Why It Happens
Weak lower esophageal sphincter
Being overweight or eating poorly
Smoking or drinking alcohol
Dr. Pothuri’s Tip: "Spicy foods are tasty, but they can make GERD worse. Be mindful at Houston’s hot food spots."
Ways to Find Relief
Avoid trigger foods: citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint
Don’t eat 2–3 hours before bed
Raise your bed head by 6–8 inches
Try antacids or H2 blockers
Section 4: Cause #3 – Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
What Is It?
A peptic ulcer is a sore in the stomach or upper intestine. It causes a burning feeling, especially between meals.
Symptoms
Dull or burning pain at night or when hungry
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling full quickly
Bleeding (in severe cases)
Why It Happens
H. pylori infection
Taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen for too long
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Dr. Pothuri’s Tip: "H. pylori is easy to detect. A breath test often confirms it."
Treatment Tips
If positive for H. pylori, follow your doctor’s antibiotic plan
Avoid NSAIDs or talk to your doctor about safer options
Cut back on coffee and spicy food
External Link NIH on Peptic Ulcers
Section 5: Cause #4 – Gallstones
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hard clumps that form in your gallbladder. They can block bile flow and cause pain.
Symptoms
Sharp pain in the upper right belly
Pain spreading to the back or shoulder
Nausea or vomiting after fatty meals
Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Why It Happens
Too much cholesterol or bilirubin in bile
Gallbladder doesn’t empty fully
Risks: obesity, rapid weight loss, fatty diet
Dr. Pothuri’s Tip: "Houston summers can lead to dehydration, which thickens bile and raises gallstone risk."
How to Feel Better
Choose lean meats and vegetables
Drink plenty of water, especially in summer
If pain keeps coming back, see a specialist
Section 6: Quick Comparison Table
Feature
IBS
GERD
Peptic Ulcers
Gallstones
Pain Location
Lower belly
Chest or upper belly
Upper middle belly
Upper right belly
Pain Type
Cramping
Burning
Burning/gnawing
Sharp, sudden
Triggers
Food, stress
Spicy food, lying down
NSAIDs, H. pylori
Fatty food, dehydration
Relief
Fiber, relax
Antacids, diet changes
Antibiotics, avoid NSAIDs
Low-fat food, hydration
Urgent Care Needed?
Rare
If severe
If bleeding
If jaundice or severe
Section 7: Healthy Habits for Prevention
Eat a Balanced Diet
Choose lean proteins, fruits, veggies, whole grains
Skip fried and processed foods
Watch Portion Sizes
Use smaller plates
Eat slowly and chew well
Stay Hydrated
Drink 8–10 cups of water daily
Limit alcohol and caffeine
Manage Stress
Practice meditation or deep breathing
Stay active with walking or yoga
See Your Doctor
Get a yearly checkup
Tell your doctor about any stomach pain
Section 8: When to See a Doctor
Pain for more than one week
Fever over 101°F
Blood in stool or vomit
Weight loss without trying
Pain that wakes you at night
Conclusion
Abdominal pain is common, but knowing the cause helps you find relief. The top 4 digestive causes in Houston are IBS , GERD , peptic ulcers , and gallstones . With simple changes and medical care, you can take control of your gut health. For more help, visit Gastrodoxs.com and explore our wellness resources.
About the Author
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the most common cause of abdominal pain?
IBS is one of the top causes. It leads to cramping and changes in bowel habits.
2. When is stomach pain serious?
If you have fever, blood in stool or vomit, or sudden weight loss, see a doctor.
3. Can stress really cause gut pain?
Yes. Stress can affect gut movement and trigger IBS.
4. Are antacids safe long-term?
Short-term use is fine. If used often, talk to your doctor.
5. How do doctors test for H. pylori?
With breath, stool, or endoscopy tests.
6. Can diet fix gallstones?
No. It can help reduce symptoms but won’t dissolve stones.
7. Is bloating a concern?
Usually not, but see a doctor if it’s sudden or severe.
8. Should I stop NSAIDs?
If you’ve had ulcers, ask your doctor for safer pain meds.
9. Do probiotics help?
Some people with IBS feel better, but results vary.
10.Where can I find a GI doctor in Houston?
Ask your primary care doctor or check providers in the Texas Medical Center.